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Vietnam is generally a safe destination for solo female travelers. Both urban and rural areas are generally welcoming and respectful towards foreign visitors. Violent crime rates are low and most locals are helpful towards travelers. However, like anywhere else, it's vital to exercise common sense, stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid isolated areas especially at night. Pickpocketing and petty theft can be a concern in crowded tourist areas and public transportation. It's advised to stay vigilant with personal belongings. Solo female travelers should also note cultural norms and dress respectfully, especially in religious sites.

Vietnam is currently ranked #53 safest country for solo female travellers. Check the full ranking.

4.4 /5

Based on 30 travel experiences

4.2 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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Safety at night:Moderate

Vietnam is relatively safe for solo female travelers, even at nighttime. The streets tend to be lively with street vendors and tourists; however, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur. Avoid poorly lit and deserted areas. As anywhere, it's best to remain aware of your surroundings and stay cautious at all times.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Vietnam generally falls mid-range on the safety spectrum. Buses, taxis and trains are widely used by locals and tourists alike. However, overcrowding and traffic can pose certain risks. It's important to be cautious of your belongings at all times as pick-pocketing can occur, particularly in busy areas. Additionally, taxi scams are known to be prevalent, so always ensure that the meter is on or negotiate a price before the journey starts. Booking taxis through a reputable company or your hotel is advisable. Despite these issues, most people use public transportation without any major problems.

Street harassment:Low

Vietnam tends to be quite respectful towards tourists. Street harassment is not usually a common issue and tourists, including solo female travelers, generally report that they feel quite safe. However, this doesn't mean it is non-existent. Like in any part of the world, it's important to always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Travelers may encounter occasional instances of catcalling or persistent vendors, particularly in busy urban areas, but as a whole, street harassment in Vietnam is not a significant concern.

Petty crimes:Low

Vietnam is relatively safe and petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag-snatching might occur, especially in crowded places such as markets, bus stations, and tourist areas. However, these are not predominantly significant and they can be avoided by taking some usual precautions like not exposing valuables, using a money belt or a pouch hidden under your clothing for important documents and money. It's always sensible to stay alert of your surroundings.

Tap water:Unsafe

Tap water in Vietnam is not deemed safe for drinking straight from the tap. Although it's generally treated and safe for brushing your teeth or washing, it's likely to contain bacteria that can lead to diarrhea or other illnesses if ingested. Always opt for bottled water, ideally from a sealed bottle, for drinking or rinsing your mouth.

4.4 /5

Based on 30 experiences

Saya (28)

Australia

Solo travel experience

I have travelled by myself to Vietnam Cambodia and Jordan. All destinations relatively safe with Jordan being the safest for tourists. In Vietnam and Cambodia with luggage and wallets you have to be vigilant but crime wise it was relatively safe. Im looking to travel to South America in July 2024 so would love some tips !

Posted: April 7, 2024Experienced: August, 2023

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Solo travel experience

I spent a month solo in Vietnam and had the best time ever. Because Vietnam has two routes - North to South and South to North I ended up bumping into the same people over and over again so I didn't worry about being lonely. Hostels always had something going on as well. I felt safe the whole time. The people in Vietnam were so lovely and the country itself was beautiful.

Posted: March 31, 2024

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Nikki

Portugal

Solo travel experience

I felt perfectly safe on my own when I visited the area around Hoi Ann. I stayed in a hotel outside the town centre on the beach. But travelled the very short distance into town by taxi most days for shopping and eating. The street food was amazing and the thing you must do is create a Pinterest board of clothes you love so you can have them made up to measure in Hoi Ann (they’re famous for it). It rained quite a bit in January but it didn’t stop me from doing anything other than a bit of pool time. It’s a really budget friendly place on a whole.

Posted: March 26, 2024

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Solo travel experience

Loved my time in Vietnam. Pretty cheap unless you do western type bars. The country's rich culture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes offer endless opportunities for exploration. However, like any travel experience, there are also unique challenges that women may face, such as cultural differences, language barriers, and safety concerns. It's important to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions, but overall, experiencing Vietnam's beauty and vibrant energy can be an unforgettable adventure.

Posted: February 18, 2024Experienced: January, 2016

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Alyssa

United States

Solo travel experience

Vietnam is a vast, budget-friendly country with several exciting activities. My favorite activity when I was there was the Ha Giang Loop in North Vietnam - a 3 day motorcycle adventure! You can either drive or (like I did) sit on the back of an experienced driver. I felt very safe during my time there. I stayed in a mix of hostels and home stays and was surprised by the hospitality and friendliness of the locals, despite the language barrier. As a vegetarian, the food was absolutely amazing and so affordable. Vietnam is definitely one of my favorite countries, I can’t recommend it enough.

Posted: February 16, 2024

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Solo travel experience

It was my first solo trip and I truly felt completely safe as a young woman traveling alone. Vietnamese are wonderful people and they are incredibly respectful. I spent there almost 3 weeks and it was the most amazing place I have ever been.

Posted: November 8, 2023

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Solo travel experience

I stayed in Vietnam for a month and it was amazing! I suggest that everyone should go there. I felt safe and confident all the time. I traveled alone and I am really proud of myself.

Posted: July 31, 2023

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Solo travel experience

Vietnam was my first trip abroad and I was alone. It was fantastic. It is very safe and inexpensive there. Since then, I have returned there 4 times. I've been to several other countries, but Vietnam is still my favorite.

Posted: July 29, 2023

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Solo travel experience

I was there for 2 months. A very safe place. I never had a problem. I used buses, trains, motorbike tours, and Grab. I traveled from the south to the north, spent many late nights in Saigon on the street with bars and everywhere else. Dancing, karaoke with locals, beer, and breakfast at 5 am, haha. Hanoi was my least favorite place.

Posted: July 25, 2023

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Solo travel experience

I travelled solo through Vietnam on a motorcycle for a month and I absolutely loved it. I didn't feel unsafe even once, and I spent a lot of time riding around the middle of nowhere on my own. I stayed in hostels and met a lot of wonderful people who kept me company.

Posted: July 18, 2023

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Before your visit to Vietnam, it's essential to check travel advisories for Vietnam, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.

🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The United States government advises to exercise normal precautions in Vietnam. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: July 24, 2023

🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Vietnam due to a high rate of petty crime. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: April 18, 2024

🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Australian Government advises to exercise normal safety precautions in Vietnam. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: April 26, 2024

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 30 experiences

Lina

Germany

Solo travel experience

I stayed in Vietnam for two weeks and traveled from the Central to the North. After arriving in Da Nang and visiting Marble Mountains, I headed towards Hoi An. Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t so good but I still good to explore the city. After that I took a long bus ride to Ninh Binh - also known as the Halong Bay on Land - great place to get around with a bicycle which I missed during my time in South East Asia. From there I headed towards Ha Giang where I did the famous Ha Giang Loop with an easy rider. Definitely recommend doing this!!! Due to lack of time I had to skip Sapa, and headed straight to Hanoi where I spent a few days including a day trip incl. cruise to Halong Bay. From Hanoi I left the country. I wish I had more time explore this beautiful and diverse country!

Posted: March 7, 2024

Things to do: 4/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 4/5

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Solo travel experience

First of all, Solo traveling is a gift and it’s great. But in Vietnam I haven’t had the best experience. It’s dirty everywhere, you can see the locals just throw their trash everywhere. The Food is ok, but more expensive then social media always said. In general Vietnam is more expensive than social media ever said. The attractions are average, but mostly way too expensive. In most places I just waited at my Hostel, until going to the next destination, cause there is not much to do or see. And the locals are not very friendly to foreigners.

Posted: March 6, 2024

Things to do: 3/5Food: 2/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 2/5

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Sunny

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I’m Vietnamese, I live in Phu Yen province and welcome all friends to visit my hometown with free couchsurfing

Speaking

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Mal

About Me

Im a travel lover. Also, a foodie. Been to 63 provinces in Vietnam and 16 countries. Hope i can be of your help!

Speaking

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Stay with local women in Vietnam who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.

Mal

Ho Chi Minh City

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Im a travel lover. Also, a foodie. Been to 63 provinces in Vietnam and 16 countries. Hope i can be of your help!

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Sunny

Sông Cầu

Can host for:

7 days

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I’m Vietnamese, I live in Phu Yen province and welcome all friends to visit my hometown with free couchsurfing

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Cristal

About Me

Hello, I'm Cristal and I'm interested in animals, books, cinema, dancing, digital nomad, diving, food & cuisine, games, languages, nature, sightseeing, solo travel, sunbathing, swimming, technology and writing